Dolemite Is My Name Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A middle-aged dude decides he’s a pimp poet karate master, makes a movie about it, and everyone’s suddenly cool with it, even though it makes no sense.

🍿 Dolemite Is My Name: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Rudy’s Big Dream

In 1970s Los Angeles, Rudy Ray Moore is struggling to find his place in show business. Working at a record store, he tries to get his own music played, but faces constant rejection. He also attempts stand-up comedy at a local club, but the owner isn’t impressed. Rudy is determined to make it, driven by his unwavering belief in his own potential.

The Birth of Dolemite

Rudy finds inspiration in a homeless man reciting rhymes and stories. He develops the persona of “Dolemite,” a foul-mouthed, kung-fu fighting pimp, and begins performing at the club. The character is a hit, and Rudy starts selling comedy albums out of his car. He then convinces a record company to market his album and embarks on a tour.

Making the Movie

Inspired by the success of Blaxploitation films and unimpressed by the movie ‘The Front Page’, Rudy decides to make his own movie starring Dolemite. He gathers his friends, hires a disgruntled actor (D’Urville Martin) as director, and recruits a film crew of UCLA students. They convert an old hotel into a makeshift studio and begin filming a low-budget kung-fu Blaxploitation film.

Against All Odds

The production faces numerous challenges due to the limited budget and D’Urville’s critical style. After the movie is completed, they face rejection from film distributors. Undeterred, Rudy decides to self-distribute, premiering the film in Indiana. The premiere is a massive success, leading to a deal with Dimension Pictures and a Hollywood premiere.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Rudy Ray Moore (Eddie Murphy): A determined but struggling artist who creates the Dolemite persona to achieve fame and success.
• Jerry Jones (Keegan-Michael Key): A playwright who initially hesitates but ultimately helps Rudy write the screenplay for the Dolemite film.
• Jimmy Lynch (Mike Epps): Rudy’s loyal friend who supports his endeavors, including recording his comedy album.
• Ben Taylor (Craig Robinson): A musician and friend who backs Rudy up on stage and helps him realize his vision.
• Theodore Toney (Tituss Burgess): A co-worker with Rudy who provides support during the creation of Dolemite.
• Lady Reed (Da’Vine Joy Randolph): A single mother discovered by Rudy who becomes his muse and a key member of his touring act and film.
• D’Urville Martin (Wesley Snipes): A seasoned actor who agrees to direct Rudy’s film, bringing his own ego and vision to the project.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Rudy Ray Moore: “Dolemite is my name, and fuckin’ up motherfuckers is my game!” – This is Dolemite’s signature catchphrase, encapsulating his persona’s blend of humor and badassery.
• Rudy Ray Moore: “How did my life get so small?” – Rudy reflects on his perceived lack of success before reinventing himself as Dolemite.
• Rudy Ray Moore: “I wanna make a movie about Dolemite. Bitches, Kung Fu, and my big ol’ dick!” – Rudy passionately pitches the core elements of his vision for the Dolemite movie to his friends.
• D’Urville: “You are about to enter a world of cinematic artistry! Or not.” – D’Urville proclaims as he begins directing the film within the film.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $20 million
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: N/A

💥 Dolemite Is My Name Reviews

Personal Review

I absolutely loved this movie! Eddie Murphy brought Rudy Ray Moore to life in a way I never expected. The entire cast was fantastic, especially Wesley Snipes. It’s a hilarious and heartwarming story about chasing your dreams, no matter how crazy they seem. The scene where they’re filming the Dolemite movie is pure gold!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Eddie Murphy”
  • “Those interested in Blaxploitation films”
  • “Viewers who enjoy biopics about unconventional artists”
  • “People interested in the history of comedy and rap”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Strong language”
  • “Sexual content and nudity”
  • “Drug references”
  • “Suggestive themes”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Eddie Murphy delivers a career-best performance as Rudy Ray Moore, capturing the infectious energy and unwavering determination of the Blaxploitation icon. The film is a joyous celebration of DIY filmmaking and the power of believing in yourself.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “”Dolemite Is My Name” is a funny and affectionate tribute to Rudy Ray Moore, a man who refused to be limited by societal expectations. Wesley Snipes steals scenes with his hilarious portrayal of D’Urville Martin, adding another layer of comedic brilliance to the film.
• IndieWire: “Craig Brewer directs with a clear love for the subject matter, creating a vibrant and authentic portrayal of 1970s Los Angeles. Eddie Murphy’s performance is a revelation, reminding audiences of his comedic genius and dramatic range.

Audience Reactions

Eddie Murphy’s performance is amazing, and the film perfectly captures the spirit of Rudy Ray Moore.: The film is a hilarious and inspiring story about following your dreams, with a fantastic cast and a killer soundtrack.

Wesley Snipes steals the show with his comedic timing and over-the-top portrayal of D’Urville Martin.: The movie is a fun and entertaining look at the Blaxploitation era, with great costumes, music, and a feel-good vibe.

Overall Consensus: A hilarious and heartwarming biopic about Rudy Ray Moore’s journey to becoming Dolemite, praised for Eddie Murphy’s performance, the ensemble cast, and its celebration of Blaxploitation cinema.

Awards

1. Critics’ Choice Movie Award (Best Actor)- 2020

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Eddie Murphy considered this role a passion project, having been a long-time fan of Rudy Ray Moore. He spent years trying to get the film made.”
• “Many of the original locations from Rudy Ray Moore’s life and films were used for filming, adding authenticity to the production.”
• “Ruth E. Carter, the costume designer, won an Academy Award for her work on Black Panther. She meticulously recreated the flamboyant and outrageous costumes of the 1970s blaxploitation era for this film.”

🖥️ How to Watch Dolemite Is My Name?

Dolemite Is My Name is a Netflix original movie. It is available exclusively for streaming on Netflix with a subscription. Unfortunately, it is not available for rent or purchase on other platforms like Prime Video or Apple TV.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Dolemite Is My Name, you might like these similar films:

• Ed Wood (1994): Both films are biopics about passionate but inept filmmakers who defy convention to create cult classics.
• The Disaster Artist (2017): This movie chronicles the making of ‘The Room,’ celebrated for its artistic ineptitude, just as ‘Dolemite’ achieved cult status despite its flaws.
• Baadasssss! (2003): A Blaxploitation film, Mario Van Peebles chronicles his father’s struggles to make ‘Sweet Sweetback’s Baadasssss Song’ with limited resources.
• Hustle & Flow (2005): Shares the theme of pursuing a creative dream against all odds in the world of hip-hop and independent music.

🛒 Dolemite Is My Name Related Products

• Dolemite [Blu-ray]: Own the original Blaxploitation classic that started it all! This Blu-ray features restored footage and behind-the-scenes extras, a must-have for any Dolemite fan.
• Dolemite Is My Name: The Soundtrack: Get the funky sounds of the 70s with the official ‘Dolemite Is My Name’ soundtrack. Featuring classic tracks and original music from the film, this album will transport you back to the Blaxploitation era.
• Rudy Ray Moore: The Godfather of Comedy: A biography DVD about Rudy Ray Moore: The Godfather of Comedy. A great documentary for anyone who appreciates the man and his genius.
• Dolemite Movie Poster: A High Quality movie poster of the man himself: Dolemite.

🎧 Soundtrack

Dolemite Is My Name features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Let’s Get It On” – performed by Marvin Gaye
• “The Ring-A-Ling-Dong” – performed by Rudy Ray Moore

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Eddie Murphy Made “Dolemite” To Honor The Genius Of Rudy Ray Moore

Ever wonder why Eddie Murphy took on the role of Dolemite? Check out this interview with Stephen Colbert where Eddie explains his deep respect for Rudy Ray Moore – it’s really cool to hear his inspiration!

‘Dolemite Is My Name’ Cast Share What Eddie Murphy Was Like on Set | FULL INTERVIEW

Want to know what it’s *really* like to work with Eddie Murphy? The cast spills the beans in this interview! Hearing about Da’Vine Joy Randolph’s reaction to working with the costume designer is priceless!

Eddie Murphy Hurt ‘Real’ Dolemite When He Was Alive – Foster Corder (Dolemite’s Former Manager)

Get ready for a different take! Dolemite’s former manager shares some surprising thoughts on Eddie Murphy’s portrayal. It’s pretty blunt, but definitely makes you think!

Academy Conversations: Dolemite Is My Name

Fancy getting really in depth about the movie? This Academy Conversation digs into the details with Eddie Murphy, the writers, and even the legendary costume designer Ruth E. Carter! So good!

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